Oakland was on the verge of having a Charlie Brown Christmas tree for the annual Christmas tree and Menorah Lighting ceremony scheduled for this Sunday evening at 5pm at Veteran’s Park.
Hurricane Sandy had taken down the evergreen tree which Oakland decorates with lights every year, and the Public Events Committee had only a few short weeks to respond.
Steve Wagoner, a PE committee member, reached out to Bryan Papaccioli of PAPS Landscaping – a fellow Oakland native and IHHS graduate – and just in the St. Nick of time a blue ribbon tree was planted in Veteran’s Park. ( see video below)
The 20 foot Norway spruce, with perfect dimensions, was donated by Papaccioli, and planted with the combined efforts of PAPS Landscaping and the Oakland DPW.
The tree, which was picked up only yesterday from a grower in Pensylvania, could cost upwards of $3000; and, the donation sets the tone for a great holiday season in 2012.
Residents are encouraged to attend the lighting ceremony at 5pm in Veteran’s Park after which the festivities will move to Valley Middle School where Santa will be in attendance, children choirs will be singing, as well as dance and martial arts presentations by local schools.
The ceremonies will be hosted by Oakland’s own Ryan Schwertfeger.
The video below shows the tree being moved into place — the weight of the root ball called for a lot of team effort.
Great job! I was wondering what was being lit this year after Hurricane Sandy took out the tree. I think this one is even better and PAPS is awesome for donating it! Nice to see the community pulling together.
Nice!!!…great job! PAPS…
Wow! Beautiful tree. Thanks Bryan!
That was the best Christmas tree and Menorah lighting ceremony ever here in Oakland. Thank you everyone who made it all possible.